The Ashes: Nathan Lyon says he is the only spinner Australia needs for Adelaide Test

Thu 28 Nov 2013, 3:38 PM AEDT

Photo

Nathan Lyon believes he is the only spinner Australia needs for the Adelaide Test.

Getty Images: Ryan Pierse

Australia don't need two specialist spinners in the second Ashes Test in Adelaide, according to Nathan Lyon, who says he's learned plenty since last year's drawn Test with South Africa at the same ground.

Against the Proteas, Australia had a series-clinching Test victory in their grips - requiring just six wickets on the fifth day at Adelaide Oval.

The scene was tailor-made for off-spinner Lyon to be the hero on his former home ground, but instead South African middle-order batsman Faf du Plessis earned the plaudits as he batted for seven-and-a-half hours, accumulating 110 not out, to force a draw.

The result raised questions about Lyon's match-winning ability - but he says he's learned and grown from that disappointment.

"I've learnt a fair amount playing a few Test matches down there," Lyon said.

"I've learnt a fair amount about my game and what I need to do and what I need to do to get better.

"Fingers crossed there's a little bit more spin down there and we'll see how we go."

And, striking a blow to the hopes of leg-spinner Fawad Ahmed and rising off-spinner Ashton Agar, Lyon said he's ready to go it alone - almost.